RE: 1st elk hunt
Elk are where you find them and sometimes they'll move down and other times they'll sit tight. That is what the advance scouting is for. I recommend 4WD and tire chains. Make sure that you have good soled boots and get ready for a potential slog.
We hunted the first rifle elk season and left early and given the reports I am glad I'm down here rather than up there. Looks like even more crap andcold on the way. Builds character.